Energy spectra of electrons in a dc glow discharge with a semitransparent anode

Abstract

A numerical model for a planar dc discharge with a semitransparent anode positioned between two symmetrical cathodes is developed. The kinetic equation is solved iteratively by means of the direct Monte Carlo method. This approach makes it possible to find stationary particle fluxes and space-charge distributions with controlled precision. The numerical calculations are carried out for hydrogen, in which case the model can be well tested. The role of the semitransparency of the anode is investigated with respect to the formation of a space-charge layer and electron energy spectra. The conditions for a stable self-sustained discharged with a semitransparent anode are discussed. The energy spectra for electrons are found to be very far from equilibrium and to have peaks linked with the peculiarities of the inelastic electron–atom collisions at low energies. The possibility of controlling the electron energy spectra using the transparency of the anode is considered.